Deploying quantum light sources on nanosatellites I: lessons and perspectives on the optical system

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development, testing, and lessons learned from deploying a compact quantum light source on nanosatellites, aiming to enable space-based quantum experiments and understand environmental impacts.

Contribution

It presents the design, integration, and testing of a miniaturized quantum light source for nanosatellites, highlighting lessons learned and future perspectives for space-based quantum experiments.

Findings

Successful integration of quantum source in a compact nanosatellite platform

Insights into environmental effects on quantum device performance in space

Framework for future quantum experiments in low Earth orbit

Abstract

The Small Photon Entangling Quantum System is an integrated instrument where the pump, photon pair source and detectors are combined within a single optical tray and electronics package that is no larger than 10cm x 10cm x 3cm. This footprint enables the instrument to be placed onboard nanosatellites or the CubeLab facility within the International Space Station. The first mission is to understand the different environmental conditions that may affect the operation of an entangled photon source in low Earth orbit. This understanding is crucial for the construction of cost-effective entanglement based experiments that utilize nanosatellite architecture. We will discuss the challenges and lessons we have learned over three years of development and testing of the integrated optical platform and review the perspectives for future advanced experiments.